The Minnesota Vikings have placed running back Aaron Jones on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury sustained during Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Jones will be sidelined for at least four games, prompting the team to rely more heavily on offseason acquisition Jordan Mason.
Jones, 30, had a challenging outing in the Vikings’ 22-6 loss to Atlanta, managing just 23 yards on five carries. This performance followed a similar showing in the previous game against the Chicago Bears, where he recorded 23 yards on five carries as well. The Vikings’ backfield has faced significant challenges this season, and with Jones out, Mason is expected to take on the bulk of the carries.
Mason joined the Vikings via trade from the San Francisco 49ers earlier in March and signed a two-year deal with the team. So far this season, he has tallied 98 yards on 24 carries, along with three receptions for 15 yards. His promotion to the starting role comes at a crucial time for the Vikings, who are looking to stabilize their rushing attack.
In addition to Mason, the Vikings are expected to re-sign Cam Akers, a veteran running back who has had two separate stints with the organization. Akers, 26, brings experience and depth to an injury-riddled lineup. Currently, the Vikings also have Zavier Scott available in the running back room, while Ty Chandler remains on injured reserve with a knee injury.
As the Vikings navigate these challenges, they are also dealing with injuries to their quarterback position. The team recently acquired Desmond Ridder to bolster their quarterback room, following the injury to J.J. McCarthy, who is expected to be sidelined for two to four weeks due to an ankle issue.
The Vikings’ ability to adapt quickly to these changes will be critical as they prepare for their upcoming games. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Mason and the rest of the team respond in Jones’ absence.
